2002 Oldsmobile Bravada review from North America
"A great compromise of utility and luxury"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clock-spring wire in steering wheel shorted out at 8000 miles, resulting in shorted electronics in dash and inoperable seat controls. Dealer was very thorough and conscientious in repairing problem. Seat computers and entire dash unit was replaced.
Transmission oil in front crankcase replaced at 25000 miles to solve slow-speed grinding problem.
Lower section of both rear doors repainted at 33000 miles to repair stone chips resulting from designer's failure to place either chip guard material or running boards on this model.
Memory for outside mirror positioning finally disconnected at 35000 miles. No one can locate problem, but they still don't work right. I'm tired of repositioning them!
General comments?
This is the best compromise between utility and comfort that I've ever driven. I average over 20 mpg in combined driving, it pulls my 5500lb boat with ease, and it accelerates like no other truck I've had. Much better than the Durango models I have previously owned.
Seating and interior is top-notch.
Styling is wonderful, but needed running board option like its stable-mates (Envoy and Trailblazer).
Needs override switch to lock 4wd in place.. All wheel drive is reactive, I'd feel better if I KNEW it was in 4-wheel mode. Buying Envoy would solve this issue.. and they ride better, too.
Snow handling with stock Michelin tires is surprisingly poor.
On-board air compressor has been used countless times.. how did I live without this little gem before?
I'll never buy a black car again!
Despite some nagging little things (like the mirror problem) this is one wonderful vehicle!!
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| 2002 - Bravada Smart Track 4.2 straight 6 I love the vehicle. If they kept making it, I would buy another one any time |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | Vortec 4.2 Inline 6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 36300 miles |
| Previous car | Chrysler Sebring Convertible |
| Date of Entry | 11th November, 2002 |